One year on as a School Governor

A little over a year ago, I became a School Governor within a large, multi-Academy Trust.

Back in February 2024, I'd organised a Lunch and Learn session at work to celebrate National School Governors Awareness Day.

The session sparked something within me.

I'm incredibly passionate about the next generation; I remember how hard it can be being a young person, but I firmly believe that every single child has the potential to become something great. We need to invest in the next generation: showing teens that anything is possible, regardless of background; every challenge is merely a learning opportunity. We need to show them that the world is a big place where anything is possible, and equip them with the skills to become their best selves.

I'm particularly passionate about our under-represented communities. I always have been, and think this is ultimately why I chose a career in Inclusion and ESG.

I did have some criteria for where I wanted to be a Governor, although I was flexible. I didn't want it to be too far away from my home as I wanted to actually be a part of the community - not just a name on a list. I wanted somewhere with a higher than average Pupil Premium/ LSEB population, although this is the case in most of my local schools. Lastly, it had to be a secondary school. Primary schools are great, but I wanted to be part of a school where I could really make a difference. I felt like secondary would be the best fit for me.

On June 1st 2024, I officially became a Governor!

It is a varied position, being a governor, however there are two main responsibilities: maintain strategic oversight of the school, and ensure accountability.

I've spent the last year learning, growing, and challenging where needed. I've celebrated successes, been blown away by the fantastic young people in our trust, and marvelled at how much more support is available today than when I left school 11 years ago. I've sat on panels, made difficult decisions, and discussed at length how to prevent another child falling through the cracks. I've met so many inspiring people, both younger and older. I still haven't quite got used to "Miss", but I'm sure that will come with time

More than anything, I hope that I've made a positive difference.

This last year as a Governor has been a blast, and I can honestly say I'm so proud of the children, staff, volunteers, and systems I've come to know over the last 14 months. Just a few more weeks to go until we find out those all important GCSE results, but I know that whatever is on that paper, each of the students at my schools have been given the best start at an incredible life.

The world is your oyster, kids, now go out and smash it!

If anyone would like to know more about how to become a Governor or what it entails, please do feel free to reach out! There's a serious shortage of governors, so if you feel you could be a good fit, I'd urge you to give it a go!